Direct specimen collection device and cassette

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to a specimen collection device comprising ventilation means for drying a collected specimen. The device further comprises a cassette into which the specimen collected is secured to maintain evidentiary chain of cus tody requirements while providing unobstructed access to a collected specimen for automated analysis. Methods of using the device are also provided.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/294,780 filed Feb. 12, 2016 and U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/452,737 filed Jan. 31, 2017 the entiredisclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a specimen collection devicecomprising ventilation means for efficiently drying a collected specimenand a cassette into which the specimen collected is secured to maintainevidentiary chain of custody requirements while providing unobstructedaccess to a collected specimen for automated analysis. Methods of usingthe device are also provided.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Increasingly in law enforcement it is necessary to collect biologicalsamples as evidence of a crime or for use as identifying information ofa particular human as is the case of DNA collection from suspects. Inthe collection of biological specimens, it is necessary to associateinformation about the subject with the specimen at the time ofcollection, as there is no manner for identifying a biological specimenby simple inspection. Therefore, a useful form of evidence collectiondevice for use with biological specimens will contain, at least, asuspect information portion for recording subject information datathereon.

The use of biological specimens as evidence further requires that thebiological specimen be securely associated with the identifyinginformation so as to assure that after collection of the specimen, thecollection paper or absorbent cannot be intentionally or inadvertentlyswitched to a different collection paper. At a minimum, a properevidence collection device or holder should easily and clearly show thattampering was attempted either by damage to delicate indicia on thedevice or by overt damage to a strongly secured device. It is furtherbeneficial if the evidence collection device can accommodate additionalforms of evidence such as the application and storage of finger printson the evidence holder.

A particular issue in the collection of the biological sample is thatthe sample collection is often taken from a living, uncooperativeperson. Often the sample is to be taken from the mouth of the suspectwhere a saliva or DNA specimen is needed. In this instance, thecollection absorbent used will be attached to a handle or a stick. Oncethe specimen is on the absorbent, the handle is no longer needed, andpresents a complicating factor in specimen storage and analysis due tothe extra bulk and size of a handle.

The foregoing issues relate, generally, to a process referred to asevidence “chain of custody.” “Chain of custody” encompasses theprocedures and documentation used to maintain and demonstrate thechronological history of the evidence. Documentation should include, forexample, name or initials of the individual collecting the evidence,each person or entity subsequently having custody of it, dates the itemswere collected or transferred, agency and case number, victim's orsuspect's name, and a brief description of the item. In biologicalsamples, the principles of evidence or sample identification involved inmaintaining proper “chain of custody” are especially critical as a fluidor cellular biological sample, once collected onto an absorbent,presents no distinguishing characteristics. This lack of visualcharacteristics foils any attempt to properly identify such a biologicalfluid or cellular sample once it has become separated from itsidentifying information.

Another problem or issue presented in the analysis of biologicalspecimens is the need to extract or transfer the collected sample fromthe original collection absorbent and onto an alternate medium to permitanalysis or testing of the specimen using the analysis equipment that isavailable in the selected laboratory. Often it is necessary to separatethe collection absorbent from its originally obtained identifyinginformation that is directly associated with the original collectionabsorbent. This separation of specimen from identifying information canlead to mistakes in associating the specimen with the correct subject orsuspect or can lead to the “chain of custody” being open to question incourt and a failure of proof of a crime. Sample misidentification is amajor source of error both in laboratory analysis and in substantiatingcriminal evidence.

Importantly, another issue relating to the collection of biologicalspecimens is that biological specimens degrade, hindering or affectingdownstream analysis. This is especially true if the collected biologicalspecimen remains wet for extended periods of time, and/or is not treatedwith stabilizing formulations. Methods of stabilizing biologicalspecimens used in the forensics community have streamlined thecollection and extraction of biomolecules from a variety of samples.These methods include transferring a collected specimen from thecollection swab to a stabilizing matrix that harbors storage medium,such as chaotropic salts, that slow down the degradation process.However, such stabilizing methods known in the art are associated withproblems. In particular, the collected specimen may not transfer to thestabilizing matrix in a consistent or reproducible manner. Further, ifthe swab used to collect the sample is separate and distinct from thestabilizing matrix receiving the sample, then forensic chain of custodyissues arise.

Accordingly, a need still exists for a specimen collection device thatis securely associated with the specimen collection absorbent andsubject identifying information, while providing ease of use for thecollecting user in the field, efficient drying and preservation of thecollected specimen, ease of storage, and compatibility with automatedanalysis equipment. Further, it would be beneficial if such device wastamper proof or tamper evident.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, a specimen collection device comprising ventilation meansfor drying a collected specimen is provided. The device comprises aspecimen collection assembly comprising a sample collection carrier anda collection absorbent connected to the specimen collection carrierthrough a raised cap, and a handle cover comprising an attachment meansfor removably connecting the handle to the specimen collection assembly.The handle cover permits manipulation of the specimen collectionassembly during specimen collection when the handle cover is attached tothe specimen collection assembly. The specimen collection device furthercomprises a sliding cover having an elongated body and a head connectedto the body on one end of the body, wherein the sliding cover isremovably and slidably connected to the handle cover. The sliding coverfurther comprises a protrusion that engages the raised cap when thesliding cover is moved forwardly on the handle cover thereby raising thehead of the sliding cover above the collection absorbent and creating aventilation gap between the sliding cover and the collection absorbent.The specimen collection device further comprises a specimen collectorcassette into which the specimen collected is secured. The cassette hasa registration track configured to register with the shape of thespecimen collection assembly upon insertion of the specimen collectionassembly into the registration track. The specimen collector cassettefurther comprises a void in unobstructed registration with thecollection absorbent when the specimen collector assembly is attached tothe specimen collector cassette, thereby providing unobstructed accessto a collected specimen for automated analysis.

The specimen collection assembly may further comprise a cover and ameans for attaching the cover to the specimen collection cassette,wherein the cover permits a user to press the cover into contact withthe collection absorbent without the user directly contacting thecollection absorbent. The specimen collection cassette may furthercomprise identification indicia and a clean punch area. The handle coverand the sliding cover may further comprise ventilation holes.

In another aspect, a specimen collection device comprising ventilationmeans for drying a collected specimen is provided. The device comprisesa specimen collection assembly comprising a sample collection carrierand a collection absorbent connected to the specimen collection carrierthrough a raised cap, and a handle cover comprising an attachment meansfor removably connecting the handle to the specimen collection assembly.The handle cover further comprises ventilation holes. The handle coverpermits manipulation of the specimen collection assembly during specimencollection when the handle cover is attached to the specimen collectionassembly. The specimen collection device further comprises a slidingcover having an elongated body and a head connected to the body on oneend of the body, wherein the sliding cover is removably and slidablyconnected to the handle cover. The sliding cover further comprises aprotrusion that engages the raised cap when the sliding cover is movedforwardly on the handle cover thereby raising the head of the slidingcover above the collection absorbent and creating a ventilation gapbetween the sliding cover and the collection absorbent. The slidingcover further comprises ventilation holes. The specimen collectiondevice further comprises a specimen collector cassette into which thespecimen collected is secured. The cassette has a clean punch area and aregistration track configured to register with the shape of the specimencollection assembly upon insertion of the specimen collection assemblyinto the registration track. The specimen collector cassette furthercomprises a void in unobstructed registration with the collectionabsorbent when the specimen collector assembly is attached to thespecimen collector cassette, thereby providing unobstructed access to acollected specimen for automated analysis.

The specimen collection assembly may further comprise a cover and ameans for attaching the cover to the specimen collection cassette,wherein the cover permits a user to press the cover into contact withthe collection absorbent without the user directly contacting thecollection absorbent. The specimen collection cassette may furthercomprise identification indicia.

In yet another aspect, a method of supporting a biological samplecollection absorbent is provided. The method provides for collecting abiological specimen, efficiently drying the collected specimen, usingthe original absorbent in an automated analytical system, and allowingfor storage of the biological sample collection absorbent. The methodcomprises providing a specimen collection assembly comprising a samplecollection carrier and a collection absorbent connected to the specimencollection carrier through a raised cap. The method further comprisesproviding a handle cover comprising an attachment means for removablyconnecting the handle to the specimen collection assembly, wherein thehandle cover permits manipulation of the specimen collection assemblyduring specimen collection when the handle cover is attached to thespecimen collection assembly, and wherein the handle cover comprisesventilation holes. The method also comprises providing a sliding coverremovably and slidably connected to the handle cover, the sliding coverhaving an elongated body and a head connected to the body on one end ofthe body and a protrusion that engages the raised cap when the slidingcover is moved forwardly on the handle cover thereby raising the head ofthe sliding cover above the collection absorbent and creating aventilation gap between the head of the sliding cover and the collectionabsorbent, and wherein the head further comprises ventilation holes. Inthe method, the sample collection assembly and the sliding cover areconnected to the handle cover to produce a sample collector. The slidingcover is slid backwardly to expose the sample collection absorbent tocollect a specimen. A biological sample is collected by contacting thebiological sample with the collection absorbent. After collecting thebiological sample, the sliding cover is moved forwardly to cover thesample collection absorbent, thereby creating a ventilation gap betweenthe handle cover and the collection absorbent. The sample is thenallowed to dry. The sliding cover is then removed from the handle cover,the sample carrier is connected to a cassette, and the handle cover isremoved from the sample collection carrier. The collection cassette isthen stored.

The method may further comprise applying a preservative additive to thecollection absorbent after collecting the biological sample, insertingthe collection cassette into an automatic sampling device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings form part of the present disclosure and areincluded to further demonstrate certain aspects of the presentdisclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to oneor more of these drawings in combination with the detailed descriptionof specific aspects presented herein.

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the specimen collection device 100 showingthe cassette 10, the sample collection carrier 18, the collectionabsorbent 19, support cap 24, slider 64, the cover 43 with ventilationholes 73 and attachment means 48 and 49, and handle cover 28 withventilation holes 99.

FIG. 2 is a perspective side view of the specimen collection device 100showing the cassette 10, the slider 64 with ventilation holes 73, andhandle cover 28 with ventilation holes 99.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the specimen collector 50.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the specimen collector 50 showing thesample collection carrier 18, the collection absorbent 19, support cap24, slider 64, and handle cover 28.

FIG. 5 is a perspective side view of the cassette 10 showing thereceiver impression 14, a first collector retaining flange 15, a secondcollector retaining flange 16, the first and second flanges havingangled ingress cuts 36 and 37, back stops 95 and 96, front stop 38,clean punch area 40, a first collector attachment peg 12 and a secondcollector attachment peg 13.

FIG. 6 is a front view of the cassette 10 showing the receiverimpression 14, a first collector retaining flange 15, a second collectorretaining flange 16, back stop 95, front stop 38, clean punch area 40, afirst collector attachment peg 12 and a second collector attachment peg13.

FIG. 7 is a front plan view of a cassette 10 having a clean punch area40, and a receiver impression 14 comprising a first tamper resistantsnap 41 and a second tamper resistant snap 42.

FIG. 8 is a perspective side view of a collection assembly 35 showingthe sample collection carrier 18, support cap 24, the collectionabsorbent 19, support pegs 22 and 23, cassette attachment voids 20 and21, and handle slots 25 and 26.

FIG. 9 is a perspective side view of a collection carrier 18 showingsupport pegs 22 and 23, cassette attachment voids 20 and 21, therecessed ridge 39 to accommodate the collection absorbent 19, microbumps52, handle slots 25 and 26, and the sample access void 27.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the support cap 24 showing voids81 and 82, side walls 83 and 84, and sloped ends 85 and 86.

FIG. 11 is a back perspective view of the support cap 24 showing voids81 and 82, side walls 83 and 84, and sloped ends 85 and 86.

FIG. 12 is a back view of the handle cover 28 showing the handle 60 andthe specimen collection support 61, and tracks 70.

FIG. 13 is a side view of the handle cover 28 showing the handle 60 andthe specimen collection support 61, carrier attachment pegs 29 and 30,and the raised portion 62.

FIG. 14 is a front view of the handle cover 28 showing the handle 60 andthe specimen collection support 61, tracks 70, the raised portion 62,carrier attachment pegs 29 and 30, and groove 74.

FIG. 15 is a back view of the handle cover 28 showing the handle 60 andthe specimen collection support 61, tracks 70, and ventilation holes 99.

FIG. 16 is a front view of the slider 64 showing the body 65, the head66, rails 71, protrusion 72, and ventilation holes 73.

FIG. 17 is a perspective back view of the slider 64 showing the body 65,the head 66, rails 71, holding ridges 51, and ventilation holes 73.

FIG. 18 is a front view of the specimen collector 50 showing the slider64 in a lowered position, exposing the collection absorbent 19 attachedto the collection carrier 18 of the specimen collection assembly 35.

FIG. 19 is a disassembled specimen collector 50 showing a back side viewof slider 64 and rails 7 and protrusions 54 a and b on the interior sideof slider 64, the collection assembly 35 with the collection carrier 18and the collection absorbent 19 attached thereon and showing handleslots 25 and 26, and the handle cover 28.

FIG. 20 is a front view of an embodiment of a cassette 10 having a cleanpunch area 40 and having a support cap void 31 mateable with a supportcap 24 of a collection carrier 18.

FIG. 21 is a back view of cassette 10 having a collection assembly 35(not fully visible) attached thereon, and showing a collection absorbent19 attached onto the collection assembly 35. The support cap 24 ofcollection assembly 35 is visible wedged in the void 31 of the cassette10. A clean punch area 40 is also visible.

FIG. 22 is a front view of cassette 10 having a collection assembly 35attached thereon, and showing a collection absorbent 19 attached ontothe collection assembly 35, and a clean punch area 40. A firstimpression 56 and a second impression 57 are also visible.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to specimen collection devices used tocollect biological samples in a form suitable for storage and subsequentautomated analysis. The methods of use provide a safe, convenient,easy-to-use, and reliable means for collecting biological samples, andfor preserving and drying the collected biological samples. The methodfurther provides for storing collected biological samples or evidence ina manner that meets chain-of-custody requirements and provides secureevidence handling, as well as reliable accuracy of analytical results.Moreover, the invention provides for enhanced convenience and efficiencywhen samples are analyzed using automated systems.

The instant specimen collection device provides for the ability to applypreservative reagent to a collected biological specimen on the device toprevent deterioration of the specimen, and to provide means forventilation for efficient evaporation and drying of the collectedspecimen. Efficient drying significantly enhances the preservation ofthe collected specimen and provides for superior forensic analysis ofthe specimen. The specimen collection device also incorporates theoriginal specimen collection absorbent and avoids the need for anytransfer of the specimen onto a second absorbent or requiring thetransfer of a bar code or other identifying material from the collectionabsorbent or sample carrier or cassette or sampling device onto thesample device holder. The absorbent or sampling paper surface of thedevice, while held within the cassette, is exposed so that smallportions or circles can be punched from the paper for delivery intotesting vials for further analysis. As such, this invention provides asafe, convenient and minimally labor intensive apparatus and methods forcollecting, preserving, drying, and analyzing biological samples.Further, the collection cassette of the invention provides for storageand subsequent automated analysis of the stored biological sample orevidence. Also, the present invention provides methods for using thecollection cassette in the collection of biological samples or evidencein forms suitable for storage and subsequent analysis.

In several places throughout the present specification, guidance isprovided through example embodiments. In each instance, the recitedembodiments serve only as representative groups and are not meant to beexclusive.

A specimen collection device 100 of the instant disclosure comprises acassette 10 and a specimen collector 50. The specimen collector 50comprises a specimen collection assembly 35, a handle cover 28, and aslider or sliding cover 64. The specimen collection assembly 35 can beattached to the handle cover 28 for collection of the sample, and can betransferred to the cassette 10 for storage or sample analysis. Below,the cooperation of elements of the specimen collection device 100 thatallow a safe, convenient and minimally labor intensive collection,preserving, drying, and analyzing biological samples will be described.

A cassette 10 of the device generally has a rectangular shape. Thecassette 10 may be shaped similar to a standard credit card, having alength about 85 mm, a width about 54 mm, and a thickness of about 1 mm.In some embodiments, the cassette 10 may also have a length of about 30,35, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56,57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74,75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90 mm ormore. In other embodiments, the cassette 10 has a thickness of about0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4,1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8,2.9, 3.0 mm or more. In an alternative of the embodiments, the cassette10 has a length ranging from about 30 mm to about 90 mm. In someaspects, the cassette 10 has a width ranging from about 30 mm to about90 mm. In some aspects, the cassette 10 has a thickness ranging fromabout 0.1 mm to about 3.0 mm. In another alternative of the embodiments,the cassette 10 has a length ranging from about 50 mm to about 85 mm, awidth ranging from about 50 mm to about 85 mm, and a thickness rangingfrom about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm. In yet another alternative of theembodiments, the cassette 10 has a thickness of about 0.8 mm to about1.5 mm, a length of about 80 mm to about 85 mm, and a width of about 50mm to about 55 mm. In an alternative of the embodiments, the cassette 10has a thickness of about 0.8 mm to about 1.5 mm, a length of about 50 mmto about 55 mm, and a width of about 50 mm to about 55 mm. In anadditional alternative of the embodiments, the cassette 10 has a lengthof about 53 mm and a width of about 53 mm. In an alternative of theembodiments, the cassette 10 has a length of about 85 mm and a width ofabout 53 mm. The cassette shape may be optimized for use in automatedhandling.

The cassette 10 comprises a receiver impression 14 therein. The receiverimpression 14 includes an access void 17 that registers with an accessvoid 27 and a collection absorbent 19 of the collection assembly 35 whenthe sample collection carrier 18 is attached to the cassette 10. Thereceiver impression 14 includes means for attaching the collectionassembly 35 for maintaining a secure fit of the collection assembly 35in the cassette 10 for storage and for immobilizing the collectionassembly 35 during automatic punching of the sample. The collectorattachment means may be any attachment means or combination ofattachment means known in the art that secures the sample collectioncarrier 18 of the collection assembly 35 to the cassette 10 such thatthe collection absorbent 19 aligns with the receiver impression 14 andaccess void 17. Such collector attachment means include, withoutlimitation, a plurality of pegs and respective voids for press fittingthe sample collector to the cassette, flanges, and stops.

In some embodiments, the collector attachment means of the receiverimpression 14 comprises a first collector retaining flange 15 and asecond collector retaining flange 16. The collector retaining flangesassist in the alignment of the sample collection carrier 18 with thereceiver impression 14 of the cassette, as well as the attachment of thesample collection carrier 18 to the cassette 10. In a preferredembodiment, the first collector retaining flange 15 and the secondcollector retaining flange 16 have angled ingress cuts 36 and 37 tofacilitate insertion of the collection assembly 35 into the cassette 10.The first collector retaining flange 15, the second collector retainingflange 16, or both may further comprise back stops 95 and 96 forretaining the collection assembly 35 within the cassette, prevent thecollection assembly 35 from sliding out of the cassette, and facilitatepositioning the collection assembly 35 in the receiver impression 14. Ina preferred embodiment, the first collector retaining flange 15comprises a back stop 95.

In some embodiments, the collector attachment means of the receiverimpression 14 may comprise a support cap void 55 that registers with,and engages the elevated support cap 24 of the collection assembly 35when the sample collection carrier 18 is attached to the cassette 10.

In some embodiments, the collector attachment means of the receiverimpression 14 comprise a front stop 38 for retaining the collectionassembly 35 within the cassette, prevent the collection assembly 35 fromsliding out of the cassette, and facilitate releasing the handle cover28 from the sample collection carrier 18 of the collection assembly 35.In a preferred embodiment, the front stop is angled to facilitateinsertion of the collection assembly 35 into the cassette 10, butprevent the collection assembly 35 from sliding out of the cassette.

In some embodiments, the collector attachment means of the receiverimpression 14 comprises a first collector attachment void and a secondcollector attachment void that correspond to a first collectorattachment peg and a second collector attachment peg on the collector.In other embodiments, the collector attachment means of the receiverimpression 14 comprises a combination of collector attachment voids andcorresponding collector attachment pegs. In preferred embodiments, thecollector attachment means of the receiver impression 14 comprises afirst collector attachment peg 12 and a second collector attachment peg13 that correspond to a first collector attachment void 20 and a secondcollector attachment void 21 on the collector.

Preferably, the collector attachment means of the receiver impression 14comprises a first collector retaining flange 15 and a second collectorretaining flange 16, a support cap void 55 that registers with, andengages the elevated support cap 24 of the collection assembly 35,attachment voids or pegs, and front stops. When the collector attachmentmeans of the receiver impression 14 comprises retaining flanges, asupport cap void, attachment voids or pegs, and front stops, theattachment means conspire to provide a substantially more secureattachment of the collection assembly 35 to the cassette 10, therebyensuring enhanced chain-of-custody requirements and more secure evidencehandling.

In some embodiments, the cassette 10 may further comprise a plurality ofindentations, such as a first indentation 56 and a second indentation57, which provide access for a plurality of carrier attachment pegs onthe handle 28, such as a first carrier attachment peg 29 and a secondcarrier attachment peg 30, after the specimen collection assembly 35 isattached to the cassette 10, and during removal of the handle cover 28specimen collection assembly 35.

The access void 17 of the cassette 10 may be covered or encased in aprotective material, for example, a plastic film, which may furtherprotect against degradation and contamination of collected biologicalsamples. Suitable plastic films or protective material are known in theart and may include polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene and othersuitable lamination plastics.

In some aspects, the cassette 10 includes a clean punch area 40.Suitable clean punch areas provide a material that is used as thecollection absorbent, but is free from collected specimen. The cleanpunch area is used to clean a punch apparatus between punches taken fromthe collection absorbent for downstream specimen analysis. The cleanpunch area 40 may be located anywhere on the cassette that is compatiblefor use by automated analysis equipment and that does not interfere withthe collection absorbent or identification indicia.

The cassette 10 may further include tamper resistant attachment meansthat attach the sample collection carrier to the cassette such thatattempts to separate the sample collection carrier from the cassette areprevented or indicated. Such tamper resistant attachment includes suchtamper resistant attachment means known in the art and may includetamper resistant seals, tampering indication dyes, and tamper resistantsnaps. In some aspects, the cassette 10 includes tamper resistant snaps,where the cassette 10 includes a first tamper resistant snap 41 and asecond tamper resistant snap 42. Such tamper resistant snaps allow thesample collection carrier to be press fit into the cassette and hinderthe removal of the sample collection carrier from the cassette withoutnoticeable damage to the device.

Aspects of the invention also include a specimen collector 50 having acollection assembly 35, a handle cover 28, and a slider or sliding cover64. The collection assembly 35 comprises a sample collection carrier 18,a collection absorbent 19 attached thereon, a means for attaching thecollection absorbent 19 to the sample collection carrier 18 using asupport cap 24, a sample access void 27, a recessed ridge 39 toaccommodate the collection absorbent 19, and a means for attaching thesample collection carrier 18 to the handle cover 28. The sample accessvoid 27 of the sample collection carrier 18 aligns with the access void17 within the receiver impression 14 of the cassette 10.

The collection absorbent 19 of the sample collection carrier 18 iscapable of attaching to at least one biological sample or evidence andfor storing such biological sample or evidence. The collection absorbent19 is attached to the sample collection carrier 18 such that thecollection absorbent is locked into the sample collection carrier andcannot be removed. The sample collection carrier 18 may further comprisemicrobumps 52 to prevent sliding of, and aid in stabilizing thecollection absorbent 19 on the sample collection carrier 18. In someembodiments, the attachment means is tamper proof. In some embodiments,the attachment means causes detectable damage if it has been tamperedwith. Suitable attachment means include those that prevent the absorbentcollector 19 from being detached from the sample collection carrier 18once it is initially attached. For example, an attachment means mayinclude sonic welding of the collection absorbent 19. In preferredembodiments, the attachment means includes a first support peg 22, asecond support peg 23, and the support cap 24, with the support cap 24having voids 81 and 82 that register with the first and second supportpegs. Further, the support cap 24 is attached to the first and secondsupport pegs (22 and 23) by sonic welding. The support cap 24 furthercomprises side walls 83 and 84 to accommodate the collection absorbent19, and provide sufficient elevation to engage a protrusion 72 on theslider 64 and raise the head 66 of the slider 64 above the collectionabsorbent 19, thereby creating a ventilation gap between the head 66 andthe collection absorbent 19. In preferred embodiments, the bottom ends85 and 86 are sloped to facilitate insertion of the collection assembly35 into the cassette 10.

The collection absorbent 19 may be any material to which biologicalsamples or evidence will sorb and which does not inhibit storage orsubsequent analysis of the biological sample or evidence. In one aspect,the collection absorbent 19 is of a porous nature to provide entrainmentof macromolecules of the biological sample or evidence onto thecollection absorbent 19. Material suitable for this purpose includes,but is not limited to, a matrix which is cellulose based (e.g.,cellulose, nitrocellulose or carboxymethylcellulose), hydrophilicpolymers including synthetic hydrophilic polymers (e.g., polyester,polyamide, carbohydrate polymers), polytetrafuroethylene, fiberglass,and porous ceramics.

In some embodiments, the sample collection carrier 18 may include acover 43 for protecting the collection absorbent 19. The cover 43attaches to the sample carrier through an attachment means. Theattachment means may be any attachment means known in the art that canremovably connect the cover to the sample carrier. By way of example,without limitation, the attachment means may be by a first attachmentmeans 48 and a second attachment means 49 that press fit on the supportcap attachment means. The cover 43 may be used by the user to press downon the collection absorbent 19 to press fit the sample carrier into thecassette 10. Also, the cover 43 may be used by the user to press thecollection absorbent 19 into contact with a preservative substance ifpresent. The cover 43 allows the user to press the collection absorbent19 without introducing possible contamination to the collectionabsorbent.

Additives may be included on the collection absorbent 19 or added to thecollection absorbent 19 after specimen collection. The additives may belocated in the receiver impression 14 of the cassette 10, or on a filmor covering that traverses the access void 17 of the cassette such thatwhen the sample carrier 18 is attached to the cassette 10 the additivescontact the collection absorbent 19. In some aspects, the additives maybe administered directly to the collection absorbent 19 by automatic ormechanical means. The additives may be in liquid, solid, semi-solid, orfilm form.

The additives may include additional compositions to preserve thebiological sample or evidence that are useful in downstream analyses, orinactivate potential pathogens. By way of example, additives may includeone or more of a weak base, a chelating agent, a protein denaturant suchas an anionic detergent, a surfactant, or free radical traps such asuric acid or a urate salt. Suitable weak bases include organic andinorganic bases.

Additives may include additional components which function in subsequentanalysis to be performed on the collected biological samples orevidence. Subsequent analysis which may be performed includes methodsand techniques known in the art. Such analyses include gelelectrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based analysis, reversetranscriptase initiated PCR, ligase chain reaction (LCR), DNA or RNAhybridization techniques, restriction fragment length polymorphism(RFLP), sequencing, direct sequencing, enzymatic assays, affinitylabeling, methods of detection using labels or antibodies, and othermethods known in the art or yet to be discovered. Non-limiting examplesof additive formulations that may be used to preserve a collectedspecimen may be as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/807,406, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in itsentirety.

The means for attaching the sample collection carrier 18 to the handlecover 28 may be any attachment means known in the art that secures thesample collection carrier 18 to the handle cover 28. Such carrierattachment means includes, without limitation, a plurality of pegsand/or slots on the sample collection carrier 18, wherein the pluralityof pegs and/or slots are mateable with respective voids or slots on thehandle cover 28. In some embodiments, the sample collection carrier 18includes a plurality of handle pegs which are mateable with a pluralityof carrier attachment slots on the handle 28. In other embodiments, thesample collection carrier 18 comprises a combination of carrierattachment pegs and handle slots which are mateable with a plurality ofcarrier attachment pegs and handle slots on the handle 28. In preferredembodiments, the sample collection carrier 18 includes a plurality ofhandle slots, such as a first handle slot 25 and a second handle slot26, which are mateable with a plurality of carrier attachment pegs, suchas a first carrier attachment peg 29 and a second carrier attachment peg30 on the handle cover 28. When means for connecting the samplecollection carrier 18 to the handle cover 28 comprises a plurality ofmateable pegs and/or slots on the sample collection carrier 18 and onthe handle 28, the carrier attachment pegs are tapered or beveled suchthat the pegs can only exit the recipient handle slot at the entry pointof the handle slot. In particular, the handle slot width is smaller thanthe largest diameter of the peg and larger than the smallest diameter ofthe peg such that the peg can slide along the slot.

The handle cover 28 of the specimen collector 50 comprises a handle 60and a specimen collection support 61 attached on one end of the handle60. The front of the specimen collection support 61 comprises a raisedportion 62 of substantially the same shape and size as the sample accessvoid 27 of the sample collection carrier 18. Additionally, the raisedportion 62 of the handle cover 28 aligns with the access void 17 withinthe sample access void 27 of the sample collection carrier 18. When thesample collection carrier 18 is connected to the handle cover 28, thehandle 60 and the specimen collector support 61 provide a means for anoperator to insert the sample collection carrier 18 into a subject'soral cavity without the user's appendages entering the subject's oralcavity. Further, the raised portion 62 of the specimen collectionsupport 61 provides support for the sample collection carrier 18 and thecollection absorbent 19 during operation such that the sample collectioncarrier 18 and the collection absorbent 19 can be passed along the inneroral cavity multiple times allowing pressure to be applied without userappendage penetration in the oral cavity. In preferred embodiments, thespecimen collection support 61 of the handle cover 28 comprises aplurality of ventilation holes 99 to facilitate drying of a collectedsample. The holes 99 may further be used to apply preservative additivesto the collected specimen on the collection absorbent 19 to preserve thebiological sample or evidence, or inactivate potential pathogens.

The slider or sliding cover 64 of the specimen collector 50 comprises abody 65 and a head 66. The body 65 of the slider 64 is substantially thesame width as the width of the handle 60 of the handle cover 28, and thehead 66 of the slider 64 is substantially the same size and shape as thespecimen collection support 61 of the handle cover 28. In preferredembodiments, the head 66 of the slider 64 comprises a plurality ofventilation holes 73 to facilitate drying of a collected sample.

In some embodiments, the slider head 66 of the slider 64 furthercomprises protrusions 54 a and b attached to the interior side of theslider head 66. The protrusions 54 a and b are on each side of theraised portion 62 of the specimen collection support 61 and in registerwith the collector attachment voids 20 and 21 of the sample collectioncarrier 18. The protrusions 54 a and b may be the same size as thecollector attachment voids 20 and 21. Alternatively, the protrusions 54a and b may be larger than the collector attachment voids 20 and 21.Additionally, the protrusions 54 a and b may be solid. Preferably, theprotrusions 54 a and b are hollow.

The slider 64 of the specimen collector 50 is removably and slidablymounted on the handle cover 28 and slides within tracks 70, which tracks70 receive rails 71 of the slider 64. The slider 64 is capable of movingforwardly and backwardly on the handle cover 28 to either expose or tocover the entire sample collection carrier 18 and collection absorbent19 attached thereon. As such, when moved backwardly, the slider 64allows for a specimen to be collected and provides additional strengthand support for the handle cover 28 during specimen collection. Whenmoved forwardly, the slider 64 provides protection for the collectedspecimen. Further, when moved backwardly, the slider 64 allows for theapplication of the preservative additives to the collected specimen onthe collection absorbent 19. Alternatively, when moved forwardly, theholes 73 of the slider 64 may be used to apply preservative additives tothe collected specimen on the collection absorbent 19 to preserve thebiological sample or evidence, or inactivate potential pathogens.

The slider 64 further comprises an additional means for providingventilation for efficient evaporation and drying of the collectedspecimen. The additional means for ventilation comprises a protrusion 72on the interior side of the body 65 of the slider 64. When the slider 64is moved backwardly, the protrusion 72 registers with, and slides withina groove 74 on the interior side of the handle cover 28. However, whenthe slider 64 is moved forwardly to place the head 66 of the slider 64over the sample collection carrier 18 and collection absorbent 19attached thereon, the protrusion 72 engages the elevated support cap 24of the collection assembly 35, thereby raising the head 66 of the slider64 above the collection absorbent 19 and creating a ventilation gapbetween the head 66 and the collection absorbent 19.

The slider 64 may further include holding ridges 51 for aiding the userin holding and sliding the slider 64 of the specimen collector 50 alongthe length of the handle cover 28. Such holding ridges may be of anymeans known in the art for providing friction between the slider 64 anda user's appendage. By way of example, without limitation, the holdingridges 51 may be a series of ridges or bumps that are raised above thesurface of the slider 64.

Referring now to FIGS. 18-22, an embodiment of a specimen collectiondevice 100 will be described. FIG. 18 shows a front view of anembodiment of an assembled specimen collector 50 showing the slider 64with holding ridges 51. The slider 64 is moved backwardly and in alowered position, exposing the collection absorbent 19 attached to thecollection assembly 35 in the collection carrier 18. The handle 60 ofthe handle cover 28, partially covered by the slider 64 is also visible.FIG. 19 shows a disassembled specimen collector 50, showing the reverseside of the slider 64, with the rails 7 and protrusions 54 a and b onthe interior side of the slider 64, the collection assembly 35, and thecollection carrier 18 with the collection absorbent 19 attached thereonand showing handle slots 25 and 26 of the collection assembly 35 forattaching the collection assembly 35 to the handle cover 28. FIG. 19further shows the handle cover 28 with holding ridges 53 present in aspecimen collector 50 of this embodiment. FIG. 20 shows a front view ofa cassette 10 having a clean punch area 40 and having a support cap void31 mateable with a support cap 24 of a collection assembly 35, andaccess void 17. FIG. 21 shows a back view of cassette 10 having acollection assembly 35 attached thereon, and showing a collectionabsorbent 19 attached onto the collection assembly 35. The support cap24 of collection assembly 35 is visible wedged in the void 31 of thecassette 10. A clean punch area 40 is also visible. FIG. 22 shows afront view of cassette 10 having a collection assembly 35 attachedthereon, and showing a collection absorbent 19 attached onto thecollection assembly 35, and a clean punch area 40.

The biological sample or evidence collection device described herein mayinclude a protect apparatus to protect the specimen collector 50 withthe attached cassette 10. A suitable protect apparatus may be asdescribed in U.S. application Ser. No. 14/662,713, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated herein in its entirety.

The biological sample or evidence collection device described hereinincludes identification indicia. Suitable identification indiciaincludes any such indicia that associates the collected biologicalsample or evidence with a unique identification so that the collectedbiological sample or evidence may be tracked and accounted for. Examplesof identification indicia include bar codes, identification numbers,thumbprints, fingerprints, numbers, letters, combinations of numbers andletters, and combinations thereof. The identification indicia may beincluded on multiple components of the evidence collection device. Forinstance, the same identification indicia may be on the samplecollection carrier 18 and the cassette 10. Also, the identificationindicia may be unique from other identification indicia fixed to thedevice. For instance, the components of the device (sample collectioncarrier, cassette, and handle) may each have the same bar code affixedthereon during manufacturing or packaging, and an additionalidentification indicia may be affixed by the analysis lab upon receipt.The devices described herein provide ample surface area to whichmultiple identification indicia may be affixed thereon. Theidentification indicia may be encoded in a bar code, magnetic strip,radio frequency identification tag (RFID), USB means, or other meansknown in the art for carrying identification information. Theidentification indicia or information may be associated to anidentification form.

The biological sample or evidence collection device described herein maybe provided with an identification card. Suitable identification cardswill associate the device with the identification card by way ofidentical identification indicia. The identification card provides auser with a means to record important identification information that isassociated with the device. The device described herein may be used withor without the identification card.

Definitions

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skillin the art. All patents, applications, published applications and otherpublications are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In theevent that there is a plurality of definitions for a term herein, thosein this section prevail unless stated otherwise.

As used herein the terms “biological sample” and “biological specimen”are used in their broadest sense and include liquid or non-liquidsamples from a wide variety of sources. Representative types ofbiological samples include tissue scrapings, whole blood, urine,cervical secretions, bronchial aspirates, sputum, saliva, feces, serum,synovial and cerebrospinal fluid, as well as laboratory preparationssuch as purified or partially purified macromolecules and cell culturematerials. By way of example, the biological sample may be body fluid,body excretion, a population of cells, saliva, urine, mucus, tissue, orother biological sample type known in the art. Further examples ofbiological samples include, physiological/pathological body liquids(e.g., secretions, excretions, exudates and transudates) or cellsuspensions (e.g., blood, lymph, synovial fluid, semen, salivacontaining buccal cells, skin scrapings, hair root cells, etc.) ofhumans and animals; physiological/pathological liquids or cellsuspensions of plants; liquid products, extracts or suspensions ofbacteria, fungi, plasmids, viruses etc.; liquid products, extracts orsuspensions of parasites including helminths, protozoas, spirochetes,etc.; liquid extracts or homogenates of human or animal body tissues(e.g. , bone, liver, kidney, etc.); media from DNA or RNA synthesis;mixtures of chemically or biochemically synthesized DNA or RNA; and anyother source in which DNA and/or RNA is or can be in a liquid medium.Preferably, the liquid containing the biological samples evaporatesafter applying the biological sample to the dry solid medium leavingmacromolecules in dry form prior to subsequent analysis.

The term “inert” is defined as molecules which have no deleteriousinteraction with macromolecules of interest within a sample and will notinterfere with any subsequent analysis of the macromolecules.

The terms “storing”, “storage”, “stored” and other derivatives of“store”, when referring to macromolecules including genetic material indry form entrained to the collection absorbent, means the preservationof macromolecules in a form suitable for subsequent analysis and whichhas not undergone substantial degradation. The time period for whichmacromolecules, including genetic material, may be stored may be asshort as the time necessary to transport a sample from the place ofcollection of the sample to the place where subsequent analysis is to beperformed. The conditions under which the sample of macromolecules maybe stored on the collection absorbent vary. Typically, samples arestored at temperatures from −200° C. to 40° C. In addition, storedsamples may optionally be stored in dry or desiccated conditions orunder an inert atmosphere. Storage may be for a few seconds up to manyyears, preferably, about 4 seconds up to 100 years or more.

The term “sorb” means that the composition of the invention is absorbed,or otherwise incorporated into or onto the solid matrix in such a way asnot to be readily removed from the matrix unless subjected to conditionswhich are intentionally or inadvertently performed to remove the sorbedcomposition from the solid matrix.

The term “weak base” includes a composition which has a pH of about 6 to10, preferably about pH 8 to 9.5. One function of the weak base is toact as a buffer to maintain a composition pH of about 6 to 10,preferably about pH 8.0 to 9.5, for example, pH 8.6.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are simply intended to further illustrate andexplain the present invention. The invention, therefore, should not belimited to any of the details in these examples.

Example 1 Collection of Evidence at a Crime Scene

The user of the collection device will retrieve the collectioncomponents from sterile primary packaging of the device. The samplecollector and the cassette of the sample collection device may comepackaged together, or they may be packaged separately. The specimencollector 50 may have the specimen collection assembly 35 and the slider64 pre-attached to the handle cover 28. Alternatively, the user mayattach the handle cover 28 to the specimen collection assembly 35, andattach the slider 64 to the handle cover 28. Any protective film orpackaging covering the collection absorbent may be removed using steriletechniques (e.g., wearing sterile gloves, handling with sterileprecautions, etc.). The user may then slide the slider 64 down to exposethe collection absorbent 19, and contact the collection absorbent 19 tosurfaces having potential evidence or biological samples for collection.If the user desires to collect a biological sample from an unwillingsuspect, attaching the handle 28 and the slider 64 will aid incollecting the sample without endangering the appendages of the user,and the whole thing will provide all the support, stiffness, protection,etc.

The user may apply additives to the collected specimen on the collectionabsorbent 19 to preserve the biological sample or evidence, orinactivate potential pathogens. The user may apply preservativeadditives to the collected specimen on the collection absorbent 19through holes 99 of the handle cover 28, directly onto the collectionabsorbent 19 when the slider 64 is moved backwardly, or through holes 73of the slider 64 when the slider is moved forwardly. The ventilationholes 99 of the handle cover 28, the ventilation holes 73 of the slider64, and the ventilation gap created by the engagement of the protrusion72 of the slider 64 with the elevated support cap 24 of the collectionassembly 35 significantly accelerate drying of the collected specimen orthe combination of collected specimen and preservative additives toprevent deterioration of the collected specimen.

Once the biological sample or evidence has been collected, the user mayallow the collected specimen to dry.

The user may then attach the specimen collection assembly 35 to thecassette 10 by aligning the sample collection carrier 18 of the specimencollection assembly 35 between the first collector retaining flange 15and the second collector retaining flange 16 and sliding the samplecollection carrier 18 within the flanges 15 and 16 until the bottom endof the collection carrier 18 engages the back stop 95, such that thecollection absorbent 19 aligns with the receiver impression 14 and overthe access void 17. The first cassette attachment void 20 and the secondcassette attachment void 21 of the sample collection carrier 18 shouldalign with the first collector attachment peg 12 and the secondcollector attachment peg 13 of the cassette 10. Additionally, the topend of the elevated cap 24 should engage the front stop 38. Inembodiments where the cassette 10 further comprises a support cap void55, the elevated cap 24 should engage the support cap void 55, therebyfurther securing the sample collection carrier 18 to the cassette 10.The flanges 15 and 16, the back stop 95, the front stop 38, and thesupport cap void 55 (if present) collaborate to retain and secure thespecimen collection assembly 35 in alignment in the cassette 10 suchthat the collection absorbent 19 aligns with the receiver impression 14and over the access void 17. The user then may further attach the samplecollection carrier 18 to the cassette 10 by pressing the pegs (12 and13), if present, into the attachment voids (20 and 21). The user mayattach the pegs 12 and 13 into the attachment voids 20 and 21 bypressing on the sides of the specimen collection assembly 35.Alternatively, and preferably, the user may attach the pegs 12 and 13into the attachment voids 20 and 21 by pressing on the slider head 66 ofthe slider 64, thereby indirectly pressing on the sides of the specimencollection assembly 35. In embodiments where the slider head 66 of theslider 64 further comprises protrusions 54 a and b on the interior sideof the slider head 66, protrusions 54 a and b, which are in registerwith the collector attachment voids 20 and 21, facilitate the functionof the slider head 66 in attaching the pegs 12 and 13 into theattachment voids 20 and 21 by providing pressure points for pushing andsecuring the pegs 12 and 13 into the attachment voids 20 and 21.

After attaching the specimen collection assembly 35 to the cassette 10,the specimen collection assembly 35 comprising the biological sample orevidence may be stored or transported with the handle cover 28 attachedthereon. The handle cover 28 may further be detached from the specimencollection assembly 35, thereby transferring the specimen collectionassembly 35 from the handle cover 28 to the cassette 10, and providing acassette 10 having a specimen collection assembly 35 attached thereonfor storage and subsequent downstream manipulation, the specimencollection assembly 35 comprising the biological sample or evidence. Thehandle cover 28 is detached from the specimen collection assembly 35 byguiding the carrier attachment pegs, such as pegs 29 and 30 on thehandle cover 28, out of the entry point of the handle slot. Detachingthe handle cover 28 from the specimen collection assembly 35 may befacilitated by a plurality of impressions, such as a first impression 56and a second impression 57, which provide access for a plurality ofcarrier attachment pegs on the handle 28, such as a first carrierattachment peg 29 and a second carrier attachment peg 30, after thespecimen collection assembly 35 is attached to the cassette 10.

The user may complete an identification form or identification card thatincludes an identification indicia on the form identical toidentification indicia located on the cassette 10. The identicalidentification indicia may also be located on the sample collectioncarrier 18. The identification form and the collection device may thenbe submitted for further analysis at a laboratory.

Components of the collection device and the information form may includeareas where additional identification indicia may be added foridentification means in the laboratory. Once the collection device isreceived by the analysis laboratory, the identification informationassociated with the cassette 10 may be entered into a database orcomputer system. The means of entering such information depends upon theidentification indicia storage means. For instance, if theidentification indicia is a bar code, the cassette may be scanned. Ifthe identification indicia is a magnetic strip, the cassette may beswiped in a device that can read magnetic strip encoding.

The cassette comprising the specimen collected on the specimencollection absorbent 19 may be placed in a sample tray of an automateddevice or machine that punches samples from the collection absorbent 19.Typically, the punches will be collected in a vial. The vial or a platecontaining the vial will be transferred to an automated sequencingmachine and analyzed. The identification information is associated withthe sample by the automated analysis devices such that the resultantreadout information is associated with the correct identificationinformation.

The invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practicedin the absence of any element, which is not specifically disclosedherein. It is apparent to those skilled in the art, however, that manychanges, variations, modifications, other uses, and applications to themethod are possible, and also changes, variations, modifications, otheruses, and applications which do not depart from the spirit and scope ofthe disclosure are deemed to be covered by the disclosure, which islimited only by the claims which follow.

What is claimed is:
 1. A specimen collection device comprisingventilation means for drying a collected specimen, the devicecomprising: a. a specimen collection assembly comprising a samplecollection carrier and a collection absorbent connected to the specimencollection carrier through a raised cap; b. a handle cover comprising anattachment means for removably connecting the handle to the specimencollection assembly; c. a sliding cover removably and slidably connectedto the handle cover, the sliding cover having an elongated body and ahead connected to the body on one end of the body and a protrusion thatengages the raised cap when the sliding cover is moved forwardly on thehandle cover, and; d. a specimen collector cassette into which thespecimen collected is secured, the cassette having a registration trackconfigured to register with the shape of the specimen collectionassembly upon insertion of the specimen collection assembly into theregistration track, wherein the specimen collector cassette comprises avoid in unobstructed registration with the collection absorbent when thespecimen collector assembly is attached to the specimen collectorcassette thereby providing unobstructed access to a collected specimenfor automated analysis.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the specimencollection assembly further comprises a cover and a means for attachingthe cover to the specimen collection cassette, wherein the cover permitsa user to press the cover into contact with the collection absorbentwithout the user directly contacting the collection absorbent.
 3. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein the specimen collection cassette furthercomprises identification indicia.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein thespecimen collector cassette further comprises a clean punch area.
 5. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein the handle cover comprises ventilation holes.6. The device of claim 1, wherein the sliding cover comprisesventilation holes.
 7. A specimen collection device comprisingventilation means for drying a collected specimen, the devicecomprising: a. a specimen collection assembly comprising a samplecollection carrier and a collection absorbent connected to the specimencollection carrier through a raised cap; b. a handle cover comprising anattachment means for removably connecting the handle to the specimencollection assembly, wherein the handle cover comprises ventilationholes; c. a sliding cover removably and slidably connected to the handlecover, the sliding cover having a protrusion that engages the raised capwhen the sliding cover is moved forwardly on the handle cover, whereinthe sliding cover further comprises ventilation holes; and d. a specimencollector cassette into which the specimen collected is secured, thecassette having a clean punch area and a registration track configuredto register with the shape of the specimen collection assembly uponinsertion of the specimen collection assembly into the registrationtrack, wherein the specimen collector cassette comprises a void inunobstructed registration with the collection absorbent when thespecimen collector assembly is attached to the specimen collectorcassette thereby providing unobstructed access to a collected specimenfor automated analysis.
 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the specimencollection assembly further comprises a cover and a means for attachingthe cover to the specimen collection cassette, wherein the cover permitsa user to press the cover into contact with the collection absorbentwithout the user directly contacting the collection absorbent.
 9. Thedevice of claim 7, wherein the specimen collection cassette furthercomprises identification indicia.
 10. A method of supporting abiological sample collection absorbent to provide for collecting abiological specimen, efficiently drying the collected specimen, usingthe original absorbent in an automated analytical system, and allowingfor storage of the biological sample collection absorbent, the methodcomprising: a. providing a specimen collection assembly comprising asample collection carrier and a collection absorbent connected to thespecimen collection carrier through a raised cap; b. providing a handlecover comprising an attachment means for removably connecting the handleto the specimen collection assembly, wherein the handle cover permitsmanipulation of the specimen collection assembly during specimencollection when the handle cover is attached to the specimen collectionassembly, and wherein the handle cover comprises ventilation holes; c.providing a sliding cover removably and slidably connected to the handlecover, the sliding cover having an elongated body and a head connectedto the body on one end of the body and a protrusion that engages theraised cap when the sliding cover is moved forwardly on the handle coverthereby raising the head of the sliding cover above the collectionabsorbent and creating a ventilation gap between the head of the slidingcover and the collection absorbent, and wherein the head furthercomprises ventilation holes; d. connecting the sample collectionassembly and the sliding cover to the handle cover to produce a samplecollector; e. sliding the sliding cover backwardly to expose the samplecollection absorbent; f. collecting a biological sample, wherein thebiological sample is contacted with the collection absorbent; g. slidingthe sliding cover forwardly to cover the sample collection absorbentthereby creating a ventilation gap between the handle cover and thecollection absorbent; h. drying the collected sample; i. removing thesliding cover from the handle cover; j. connecting the sample carrier toa cassette; k. removing the handle cover from the sample collectioncarrier; and, l. storing the collection cassette.
 11. The method ofclaim 10, further comprising applying a preservative additive to thecollection absorbent after collecting the biological sample.
 12. Themethod of claim 10, further comprising inserting the collection cassetteinto an automatic sampling device.